Iroko
Milicia excelsa, Milicia regia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain, often producing a ribbon-stripe figure on quarter-sawn surfaces. The texture is coarse with open pores and a slightly irregular, zig-zag grain visible on the face.
Color Description
Heartwood typically ranges from a yellow to golden brown, maturing to a darker nut brown over time with light exposure. Sapwood is distinctively paler yellowish-white. It exhibits a natural medium-to-high luster.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and insect attack, including termites. Often used as a substitute for Teak in marine environments.
Common Uses
Boat building, outdoor furniture, flooring, cabinetry, heavy construction, and turnery.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and East Africa, from Guinea-Bissau to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Mozambique).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-harvest age appears to be moderate (1-5 years) based on the surface oxidation and lack of deep grey weathering typical of older external exposure.
Sustainability Status
Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Not currently CITES listed, but growing concerns regarding over-exploitation in native regions.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. It has a high silica content which can noticeably dull cutting edges. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often called 'African Teak' though unrelated. Wood dust is known to be a skin and respiratory irritant; caution is advised when sanding. It is very stable once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or marine-grade varnishes are recommended. If used for outdoor applications, a UV-inhibiting finish will help maintain the golden-brown color.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The coarse texture, color palette, and specific vessel arrangement visible on the rough-cut surface are highly characteristic of Milicia species.